Richard Wayne Nichols II

Richard (Rick) Wayne Nichols II, of Amarillo, Texas, was reunited with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Thursday, August 29, 2024. Rick was born on May 7, 1955, in Abilene, Texas, to his mother, Carol Katherine Burkett Nichols, and his father, Richard Wayne Nichols. His father served in the U.S. Navy, and the family relocated throughout Texas several times before finally settling in San Angelo, Texas, where Rick spent most of his early years.

 Rick graduated from Central High School in 1973 in San Angelo, where he was later employed as the youngest Sheriff's Deputy of Tom Green County at the age of 20. In fact, he was too young to purchase ammunition for his service weapon. Over the years, Rick worked as a general contractor in new home and barn construction in both Orlando, Florida, and San Angelo, Texas. He was also a trim carpenter, cabinet builder, and auto body repairman.

 Later in life, Rick pursued higher education at San Angelo State University, Tarleton State University, and West Texas A&M University. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, followed by a Master of Science in Political Science and a Master of Education in Counseling Education in 1993.

 For the last 31 years, Rick owned and operated Nichols and Associates in Amarillo, TX, serving the Texas Panhandle as a Licensed Professional Counselor. His legacy is a testament to service, kindness, and compassion.

 Rick is survived by his loving and devoted wife and best friend, Ally Nichols of Amarillo; his sons, Jerid Nichols of Lubbock, Carlos Hernandez of Midland, Bobby Sanders and his wife, Nichole, of Amarillo; his daughters, Brittany Hernandez of Amarillo and Ricci Hays of Colorado Springs, Colorado; along with twelve grandchildren, to whom he was known as Pops.

 Rick was a man of integrity, known for his warm heart and the love he shared with everyone around him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, who will forever cherish the memories of his laughter, wisdom, and unwavering support and service to others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and colleagues who were fortunate enough to know him.